Colistin
Colistin is a polymyxin antibiotic used as a last-resort treatment for serious multidrug-resistant Gram-negative bacterial infections when other antibiotics are ineffective.
Colistin is a last-resort polymyxin antibiotic for treating serious multidrug-resistant Gram-negative bacterial infections when other treatments have failed.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- A07AA10
- RxNorm
- 2709
- Generic
- Colistin
- Class
- atc-a07
- Brands
- Coly Mycin M, Cortisporin-TC
- Availability
- rx
- Pregnancy
- C
- Lactation
- caution
- Routes
- oral, otic
- Forms
- solution, tablet, suspension
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Treatment of serious multidrug-resistant Gram-negative bacterial infections, including hospital-acquired pneumonia, ventilator-associated pneumonia, bloodstream infections, and urinary tract infections caused by resistant organisms such as Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Acinetobacter baumannii, and carbapenem-resistant Enterobacteriaceae.
Colistin is a polymyxin antibiotic that works by binding to the bacterial cell membrane and disrupting its structure. It displaces calcium and magnesium ions from the phospholipid components, leading to increased membrane permeability, leakage of cellular contents, and ultimately bacterial cell death.
Colistin is typically reserved for cases where other antibiotics are ineffective due to toxicity risks. Common side effects include nephrotoxicity (kidney damage) and neurotoxicity (such as tingling, muscle weakness, or seizures). Dosage must be adjusted for patients with reduced kidney function. It may also cause respiratory issues in some patients and should be used with caution in those with myasthenia gravis.
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 25, 2026. · Read our editorial policy